Minnesotans Urged to Prepare for Winter Driving

Monday

Nov 19, 2012 at 12:22 PMNov 19, 2012 at 12:27 PM

Many Minnesotans will be hitting the road for the Thanksgiving holiday, and even though it's been a rather mild November so far, the State Patrol says this is a good time to make sure you're ready for winter driving conditions, which will eventually hit hard.

Lieutenant Eric Roeske says one thing you'll want to do is put together a roadside emergency kit.

"You should have blankets, candles, something to eat, some warm clothing, boots, jackets, hats, a flashlight. It's important to have those items with you in case you do either break down or find yourself in a situation where you have to get some help or be in the cold."

Roeske says it's also a good idea during winter driving to bring a cell phone and, before leaving, communicate to someone where you're going, by what route, and what time you expect to arrive.

Another important step this time of year, says Roeske, is to make sure your tires have enough tread and that your vehicle is in good working condition.

"Oftentimes we see the cold weather will uncover problems in your vehicle, such as a weak battery, a coolant system that's been neglected. Things along those lines will pop up when it gets cold out and you can run into trouble. So, it's good to get those things inspected and make sure your vehicle is ready for the winter weather."

Roeske says that in order to be safe when the roads are rough, plan for extra time, be patient and always buckle up.

More information is at dps.mn.gov.

John MichaelsonMinn. News Connection

Many Minnesotans will be hitting the road for the Thanksgiving holiday, and even though it's been a rather mild November so far, the State Patrol says this is a good time to make sure you're ready for winter driving conditions, which will eventually hit hard.

Lieutenant Eric Roeske says one thing you'll want to do is put together a roadside emergency kit.

"You should have blankets, candles, something to eat, some warm clothing, boots, jackets, hats, a flashlight. It's important to have those items with you in case you do either break down or find yourself in a situation where you have to get some help or be in the cold."

Roeske says it's also a good idea during winter driving to bring a cell phone and, before leaving, communicate to someone where you're going, by what route, and what time you expect to arrive.

Another important step this time of year, says Roeske, is to make sure your tires have enough tread and that your vehicle is in good working condition.

"Oftentimes we see the cold weather will uncover problems in your vehicle, such as a weak battery, a coolant system that's been neglected. Things along those lines will pop up when it gets cold out and you can run into trouble. So, it's good to get those things inspected and make sure your vehicle is ready for the winter weather."

Roeske says that in order to be safe when the roads are rough, plan for extra time, be patient and always buckle up.